Your Guide to Working in Canada: Frequently Asked Questions
Are you considering working in Canada and curious about the process?
You've landed in the right place! Here, we've answered some of the most commonly asked questions about visas, job hunting, and everything you need to know before you take the leap.
Can I work in Canada while on a visitor visa?
No, Canadian law prohibits visitors from engaging in any form of employment on a visitor visa.
While you are allowed to explore job opportunities, you can't start working until you obtain a valid work permit or gain permanent residence status.
Is it possible to convert a visitor visa to a work permit?
Typically, visitor visas can't be directly converted into work permits.
However, under a temporary public policy that was effective until February 28, 2023, visitor visa holders were able to apply for an employer-specific work permit from within Canada.
Do I need an IELTS score for a Canadian work permit?
Although in many instances an IELTS score or similar language proficiency proof isn't a prerequisite for a Canadian work permit, certain specialized permits like the one for live-in caregivers might necessitate it.
Additionally, specific Canadian visa offices might require language test scores.
Be aware that even without a language test requirement, your application might be rejected at the entry point if authorities suspect language issues could affect your job performance.
What are the fees associated with a Canadian work permit?
The standard processing fee for a work permit tied to a specific employer is $155.
For an open work permit, the total charges come up to $255, which includes a $100 fee specifically for open work permit holders.
Plus, a biometrics fee of $85 is added, no matter the kind of work permit.
Remember to account for additional expenses such as medical check-ups, police verification, language tests (if applicable), educational assessments, document translations, and so on.
How easy is it to secure a job in Canada?
While job hunting in Canada can be competitive, it is not impossible.
The process is generally more straightforward for Canadian citizens and Permanent Residents, but foreign-skilled workers can also find opportunities.
In certain sectors where there is a shortage of skilled labour, employers frequently hire foreign workers.
Is a job offer from Canada mandatory for a work permit?
Yes, a valid job offer from a Canadian employer is necessary if you're applying for an employer-specific work permit.
On the other hand, if you're eligible for an open work permit, a job offer isn't required.
Can a Canadian employer sponsor my work permit?
In Canada, there isn't a sponsorship system for employment.
If a Canadian employer wishes to hire you, they generally need to apply for a Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA) to evaluate the impact of hiring overseas workers on the Canadian job market.
For an employer-specific work permit, you'll need an LMIA copy and a formal job contract from your employer.
However, an LMIA hasn't required if the applicant is eligible for or already holds an open work permit.
What's the average processing time for Canadian work permits?
The duration for work permit processing can significantly vary depending on the country from where you're applying.
For instance, as of January 2023, the processing time for applications submitted online from India is approximately nine weeks, while it's 50 weeks for those from China.
For applications from within Canada, the processing time can extend up to 24 weeks. Always check the government's website for up-to-date processing times.
Can I include my family in my work permit application for Canada?
Your spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children can be part of your work permit application.
If your application gets approved, your spouse or partner may qualify for an open work permit, study permit, or visitor record.
Your children can accompany you either as visitors or with a study permit, provided they're enrolled in a Canadian educational institution.
Other relatives, however, cannot be included in your application or accompany you to Canada based on your work permit.
What's the best way to look for jobs in Canada?
Job hunting in Canada can be done in several ways:
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Online job portals: Websites like LinkedIn, Indeed, Monster, and the government's Job Bank are great starting points.
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Networking: Establishing connections can provide access to the "hidden job market" - jobs that aren't publicly advertised.
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Employment agencies: Organizations like Randstad Canada and Robert Half can match job seekers with suitable roles.
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Job fairs: These events are perfect for finding jobs in specific industries.
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Volunteering: A chance to gain Canadian experience and network within your industry.
Can international students secure jobs in Canada?
Yes, international students in Canada can work, given that their study permit includes a provision allowing them to work on or off campus. In such cases, a separate work permit isn't necessary.
Usually, on-campus work requires you to have a valid study permit, and a Social Insurance Number (SIN), and to be enrolled as a full-time student at a Designated Learning Institution.
Eligibility for off-campus work also requires a valid study permit and a SIN, along with being engaged in full-time studies in a post-secondary academic, vocational or professional study program or a secondary-level vocational training program (only in Quebec).
It's important that your study program is at least six months long and culminates in a degree, diploma, or certificate.
If your study permit doesn't permit you to work in Canada, yet you meet the above eligibility criteria, it's possible to request the addition of a work condition to your study permit.
For students whose study program includes a mandatory co-op or internship term, a separate co-op or internship work permit is required.
This ensures the work placement necessary for your graduation is legally covered.
What is the standard resume format in Canada?
Canada primarily uses three types of resume formats: reverse chronological, functional, and combination.
Be sure to tailor your resume to each job application, highlighting your achievements over your responsibilities.
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How can I secure a job without Canadian work experience?
If you're a newcomer, volunteering or part-time jobs can provide valuable Canadian experience.
Also, bridging programs can provide work placements or projects that contribute to your experience.
Why is networking crucial in Canada?
In Canada, networking plays a pivotal role in the job hunt. Many job openings are filled through the recruiters' networks.
Building a strong professional network can significantly enhance your job prospects.
What jobs are most sought-after in Canada?
Some sectors currently experiencing skills shortages include healthcare, education, manufacturing, IT, services, construction, and agriculture.
These sectors often provide promising opportunities for foreign workers.
Are work permit holders eligible for provincial health insurance in Canada?
Yes, all provinces and territories offer health coverage to work permit holders.
However, the duration of the work permit required varies, and some provinces have a waiting period before the coverage comes into effect.
Can I become a permanent resident if I have a work permit?
Although a work permit does not automatically qualify you for permanent residence, the work experience you gain can make you more eligible.
Canada's Express Entry program and Provincial Nominee Programs provide pathways to permanent residence. Such as the CEC program in Express entry.
Check your Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs Eligibility for FREE: [Click here]
How can I extend my Canadian work permit?
Work permit extension requests can be made if your job gets extended or if you're eligible to continue working in Canada.
It's crucial to apply at least 30 days before your current status expires.
Remember, while the information provided here is designed to guide you, the process of working in Canada involves several steps and may differ based on individual circumstances.
Always check the latest information on official government websites or consult with immigration experts to ensure you're on the right path.
We hope you found this FAQ guide helpful! Have more questions about working in Canada? Leave a comment below or reach out to us directly.
Happy job hunting!
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